9. Short Debate: Supporting those who support us: The mental wellbeing of our NHS and social care workforce

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:01 pm on 20 January 2021.

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Photo of Jack Sargeant Jack Sargeant Labour 5:01, 20 January 2021

Can I start by commending our colleague Jayne Bryant for bringing this topic to the Senedd? I think the way she has just delivered her speech today clearly shows the importance of this issue, and we say 'thanks' to our wonderful NHS staff and care workers.

It is impossible to say when and how post-traumatic stress disorder hits, but when it does, it can be debilitating and devastating. I say this from my own personal experience and struggles. At the moment, our NHS and social care staff and volunteers are being stretched beyond what we could reasonably expect from them, and even what we could possibly imagine. But they carry on, and they carry on for the sake of the nation.

Anxiety, tiredness and perhaps even a sense of hopelessness could be a real issue, but the future could hold an even greater risk as trauma-inflicted side effects could happen at any time. Now, this should not take the Government by surprise, and we should be planning for it now. Significant support will be needed as these mental health problems are predictable and will impact on everyone.

Deputy Llywydd, I'll finish in the words of Jayne Bryant: not all heroes wear capes, but we do know where they work, and we as Governments and as individuals need to support the heroes that have supported us and continue to support us. Thank you.